 |
As a child, Dalton Henson always refused to go to dances, a decision that resulted in arguments with his mother, who wanted him to socialize with his classmates. Now as an adult, Dalton feels more and more uneasy. For example, he feels ashamed whenever someone asks him if he has a date. He does not like talking about it because he has never had a girlfriend. He also does not want people to know he has never had sex. On top of that, these types of conversations make him blush, and people make fun of him because of this. In addition, Dalton has begun to realize that he is attracted to prepubescent boys. Throughout this journey, Dalton must refrain from acting on his desires.
In his work, Veteran tackles the roots of pedophilia and describes the constant battle of these emotions. The author dives into Dalton’s emotions and gives a detailed account of his inner desires that he cannot act on. In addition, Veteran shows the high social price some people pay for embarrassment. For example, Dalton turns red when the subject of sex is brought up, leading to laughter from others and his increasing social isolation and shame. Veteran gives each character a voice that makes them stand out, but Dalton as a troubled young man trying to fit in the world is the best developed. Pedophilia is a loaded topic that is often viewed through a black-and-white lens. However, the author works hard to show the turmoil within a person who is tempted in that direction. The author also addresses the topic of fitting in and how society views others who do not fall in line as odd.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review